March

What will radiotherapy look like in 10 years’ time? How will the technology have developed? How will patients receive their treatment? These are some of the questions we explored in our joint report on radiotherapy with NHS England.

In the first of two highlights linked to a new diagnostic tool for oesophageal cancer, our researchers in Cambridge discovered a genetic fault that may play an important role in how the disease develops (see November for the second highlight).

August

We’re investing in new trials looking at an advanced form of radiotherapy

We announced a major investment into new trials looking at an advanced form of radiotherapy. And we were delighted that the Government followed up on our investment with a £6m pledge to support these trials in the NHS.

We got tough on tobacco industry tactics with a hard-hitting campaign that’s engaging young people across the UK. #SmokeThis is the first time we have – with your help – addressed the tobacco industry directly…and we’re delighted with the results so far.

Our scientists discovered that cancer cells use a particular set of molecular signals to help untangle their DNA before dividing. Identifying these signals offers a potential new weakness that could help kill the cancer cells.

And finally, in an innovative approach combining imaging and genetic data, our researchers in Cambridge showed that an aggressive form of ovarian cancer could be driven by the cells having low levels of an important protein called PTEN.

Once again we want to thank each and every one of you for your amazing support. And to stay up to date, you can subscribe to this blog, either via its RSS feed, or by typing your email address into the box in the right hand column.

Comments

Since 2001 there has been a big improvement in how we treat mesothelioma. Our scientists were involved in a practice-changing study which showed how a new drug combination increases survival of mesothelioma patients by up to six months, sometimes longer. This drug combination is now the standard treatment for this disease. But, we know that more needs to be done to improve survival rates, which is why we are continuing to fund research into mesothelioma.

Hi Neville,
We have a question and answer section on the patient information section of our website where you can find up to date information about different types of cancers and the latest cancer treatments. You can also give our Cancer Information nurses a ring on freephone 0808 800 4040 (9am-5pm, Monday to Friday) or send them an email through this form.

Hi Jenny,
It’s great news that you are interested in organising a fundraising event for us – thank you. You can find lots of different fundraising ideas on our website along with practical tips to help you organise and run the event.

I am really very sad when hearing again and again about another and another victim of cancer-monster in my neighbourhood. I have financially supported the British Cancer Research for many years now (since 2006), from 2007 also from Norway where I have been living since that year. Nevertheless I do not believe that it is possible to win over the cancer and get some universal medicine and treatment to beat it definitely (before I die). Sorry!

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